Successful interviews with potential nannies start with a comprehensive list of questions. ABC Nannies will give you access to carefully screened candidates who match your position’s requirements. Then, you can focus on asking thorough questions, getting to know them better and deciding who’s the best fit for your family.
1) How to Interview a Nanny
Whether you’re hiring a nanny for the first time, or looking for a new caregiver, an in-depth interview will help you make an informed hiring decision with confidence. We recommend opening this conversation with an overview of your family before outlining your position and requirements in more detail. Then, ask specific questions about the candidates’ experience and approach to childcare.
Start by telling the nanny candidate about your family. Remember, candidates only have the information you’ve provided in your job description (or what your agency has shared with them). While you don’t have to ‘sell’ what it’s like working for your family, candidates do need an honest view of your household.
Share details about your family’s childcare needs, your daily routines, your desired work schedule, and your expectations. Be sure to outline the position’s key responsibilities and explain the specific childcare and household duties involved. We’ve found time and again that being up-front about these details helps minimize the risk of future misunderstandings.
Now, it’s time to get to know the candidates. Be careful not to reveal too much about your parenting style and childcare philosophies early in the conversation–this way, you won’t influence interviewees’ responses. Give candidates the chance to answer your questions candidly, and don’t be afraid to follow up on certain points if you’d like more clarity.
2) Essential Questions to Ask a Nanny Before Hiring
We invite you to select 7-10 questions from this list of potential options so you can get to know your candidates better and find the perfect fit for your family.
Introductory Overview
- What inspired you to become a nanny?
- What do you enjoy most about working with children?
- Why are you interested in working for our family?
Training and Education
- Tell me more about any child-related courses you’ve taken, any training you’ve completed and your relevant qualifications for this job.
- Have you taken any additional courses or earned any certifications related to child development?
- Tell me about a time where you had to handle a medical emergency and how you handled it?
- Have you ever worked with children who have severe allergies?
Work Experience
- Tell us more about the families you’ve worked for in the past. What’s your favorite nanny job and why?
- Can you share a challenging situation you faced as a nanny and how you handled it?
- Have you ever worked with children who have special needs or behavioral challenges?
Childcare Philosophy
- How would you describe your overall approach to childcare?
- What role do you think a nanny plays in a child’s development and well-being?
- How do you balance structured activities with free play?
Caregiving Style
- How do you handle tantrums or difficult behavior?
- What is your approach to setting boundaries and discipline?
- How do you ensure a child feels emotionally supported and secure in your care?
Child Development
- What activities do you find useful to encourage learning and development?
- How do you support language development and early literacy?
- How do you foster independence and problem-solving skills in children?
Questions Specific to Your Nanny Position
- What is your preferred method of communication, should any issues arise?
- Are you comfortable following our family’s schedule and routines?
- Are you open to additional tasks, such as light housekeeping related to the children?
The more time you spend getting to know candidates upfront – and take time to understand their personality, preferences and approach to childcare – the easier your hiring decision will be. Be honest. Have fun meeting caregivers. And good luck!
If you’d like to learn more about all that a professional and experienced nanny can bring to your family, the ABC Nannies team would love to hear from you.
Discover the ABC Nannies difference. With over 30 years of proven success, ABC connects exceptional nannies and household staff with local families who value professionalism, reliability and top-notch care.
- If you found this article useful, you might also enjoy this: Nanny Benefits: What to Offer.
- If you’re a family looking to hire a nanny, we’d love to help. Complete our Family Application here.
If you’re a candidate looking for your next position, apply here.
